Four Kenyan filmmakers are in police custody following their arrest on Friday night in a dramatic raid at their studio in Karen, Nairobi.
The four include — Nicholas Wambugu, Brian Adagala, Mark Denver Karubiu, and Christopher Wamae.
According to a statement by Ezekiel ‘Ezy’ Onyango, Chairperson of the Kenya Film and Television Professionals Association (KFPTA), their equipment and data storage devices were seized during the operation.
“We have been informed that they are facing charges related to publishing false information and cyberbullying, and we call on the relevant authorities to provide full transparency regarding these charges and the conditions under which the filmmakers are being held,” reads the statement.
“The Act, particularly Section 23, criminalizes false publication and has previously come under fire from digital rights groups for being vague and open to abuse.”
While the specific content allegedly in violation remains unclear, sources close to the situation suggest the arrest may be linked to a recent documentary project exploring politically sensitive topics.
According to Wambui Gichuhi, a lawyer with the human rights watchdog Article 19 East Africa, “This case raises critical questions about freedom of expression and creative independence in Kenya.”
“To my fellow creatives and the public, let me be clear: The criminalisation of filmmakers for carrying out their work is unacceptable. I know you’re frustrated, distressed, and upset, but I urge you to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive as we engage with the authorities to secure their immediate release,” he says.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) have issued statements calling for immediate access to legal representation for the accused and a public explanation of the charges.
Onyango has assured the public that the association is “fully engaged” and “will not relent” until the filmmakers are released.
